Transformer Power Supply Control Using Stop-Period Load Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching power supply apparatuses face challenges in accurately detecting load states without adding new circuits, which affects power supply efficiency and cost-effectiveness, especially in varying load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A power supply apparatus with a transformer, switching element, and control unit that performs intermittent control by measuring the stop period and adjusting the switching operation based on feedback voltage, allowing efficient power supply without additional circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a range switching circuit is added to detect load state accurately, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the auxiliary coil's inherent voltage output characteristics to self-indicate load state. The control unit measures the auxiliary voltage directly without requiring external detection circuits, allowing the system to serve its own measurement needs and avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary coil serves dual purposes: providing auxiliary power supply voltage and simultaneously serving as a load state detection sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection circuits, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If intermittent switching control is performed to improve power supply efficiency, then use of energy is improved, but measurement precision of load state deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit measures the auxiliary coil voltage during the stop period before the next switching period begins. This preliminary measurement ensures accurate load state detection is completed before switching resumes, maintaining measurement precision while enabling intermittent energy-saving operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary coil voltage provides continuous feedback about the secondary side load state to the control unit. This feedback mechanism allows the control unit to accurately determine load state even during intermittent switching, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and measurement precision.
3Productivity
If continuous switching control is performed in high load state, then productivity is improved, but use of energy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically adjusts switching operation based on real-time auxiliary voltage measurements that reflect current load state. The system transitions between continuous and intermittent switching modes dynamically, optimizing both productivity and energy efficiency according to actual operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit changes switching parameters (continuous vs. intermittent mode) based on the measured auxiliary voltage level. When auxiliary voltage indicates high load state, continuous switching is maintained for productivity; when load decreases, intermittent switching is activated for energy efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables efficient power supply adaptation to load states, maintaining high power supply efficiency and reducing costs by accurately detecting and responding to load conditions without requiring a new circuit for range switching.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer including a primary coil, a secondary coil, and an auxiliary coil
Implementation Method 2
a switching element configured to supply or cut off electric power to the primary coil by a switching operation
Implementation Method 3
a feedback unit configured to feed back a voltage output from the secondary coil
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply apparatus including a switching element configured to supply or cut off electric power to a primary coil of a transformer by a switching operation, and a control unit configured to control the switching operation. The control unit is configured to perform intermittent control of repeating a switching period for performing the switching operation and a stop period for stopping the switching operation. In the switching period, when the control unit performs the switching operation a predetermined number of times, the switching period is transitioned to the stop period. In the stop period, when the control unit determines that a voltage output from a secondary coil of the transformer falls below a target voltage, the stop period is transitioned to the switching period. The control unit is configured to change the switching operation based on a length of the stop period.